Rome and the Economics of Ancient Law II

Abstract

This chapter provides a broad overview of the chapters in the second volume of Roman Law and Economics. The subjects addressed in this volume include slavery and the Roman economy credit, property, dispute resolutions, and remedies, and finally wrongdoing and Roman law. The focus of my discussion is on the role that economic theory plays in the work of the various authors, who represent ancient historians, scholars of Roman law, lawyers, and economists. The chapter will provide a perspective on the contents of the book as a whole and will seek to explain why economic methods are a fruitful way to understand Roman law.